Oldtown News

My look at the issues of our Oldtown neighborhood and other political news

Friday, March 26, 2010

DERA OH DERA OH DERA

Oldtown NewsVancouver BC

DERA OH DERA OH DERA

Well everyone has heard I'm sure by now that this once proud and quite noble organization has fallen into complete disrespect.

Serious allegations have surfaced regarding misuse of funds, nepotism and awarding of affordable housing suites to DERA staff, board members and insiders. People on the wait list for affordable housing were disregarded so friends of the Executive Director could have the suites.

Yesterday BC Housing in an unprecedented move has filed a court case against DERA in Supreme Court.

So far the allegations have not yet been proven, however, the fact even of the alleged improprieties is so powerful that DERA is now simply a completely discredited group.

It is quite possible that Police will need to investigate to determine whether criminal acts have occurred.

In the meantime I am hopeful that the Courts can immediately move to take control of the DERA buildings which will provide for the tenants safety.

Residents who I have spoken with in the last two days are completely devastated by the news now surfacing since this was an organization that they had historically held in high regard. Moreover people placed their trust in DERA honestly believing that DERA was fighting on their behalf for a better life.

As we now know even the tinge of these serious allegations has shown that DERA has seemingly without any regard for poor people betrayed and destroyed their trust. This is what is so despicable when you consider that homeless people could have been housed securely in DERA buildings, however, they were passed over in favour of those not needing the housing and this is what is so criminal

Shame on you DERA!!

Please read the stories coming out in the Sun, Province and National Post today and tomorrow.